This one-of-a-kind restorative option is highly recommended by dental professionals for several reasons. Although the process is much longer and requires surgery, unlike bridges and dentures, the results and benefits make it all worth it!
Before making your final decision, check out these important facts about dental implants:
1. Dental implants replace the tooth roots.
Unlike other restorative dentistry options, the dental implant procedure replaces the entire tooth, from the root to the crown. The implant itself is a small, screw-like rod that acts as the tooth root. Therefore, it must be inserted into the jawbone. This piece provides strength and stability to the crown, bridge, or denture.
It also strengthens the jawbone by providing necessary stimulation to the bone which is important because many people with missing teeth will experience facial atrophy that makes them appear much older than they are.
2. Patients must have sufficient jawbone density.
To place a dental implant, a patient must have the right amount of jawbone for the implant to bond with. When a patient doesn’t have enough bone, the dentist or an oral surgeon can perform a bone grafting procedure.
Once placed, the dental implant and bone form a strong bond through a natural process called osseointegration. This may take up to six months but is absolutely necessary for the success of the implant.
3. Smoking puts patients at risk for dental implant failure.
Patients who smoke may not be candidates for dental implants. Unfortunately, the act of smoking and the bacteria and chemicals that live in the mouth of a person who smokes can lead to the mouth’s inability to heal and serious bacterial infections.
If the patient is set on dental implants, the dentist will require him to quit smoking before the procedure and during the healing process. We encourage those patients to continue to avoid tobacco use in order to achieve optimal oral and overall health.
4. Dental implant surgery is highly successful.
One of the greatest things about dental implant surgery is that the success rate is over 90%. When patients choose an experienced dentist, complications are extremely rare. This is because dentists know who a suitable candidate is and who isn’t based on their oral health and medical history. Additionally, the biocompatible materials contribute to a positive outcome.
5. Dental implants don’t require special care.
Once the dentist places the implant, and the healing process is complete, patients don’t need to do anything else. As long as they are adhering to normal oral hygiene guidelines, the dental implants should remain healthy!
Along with keeping a proper oral hygiene routine, patients should continue to visit the dentist regularly after their dental implant procedure is complete. Dental visits may be recommended every six months, or more frequently depending on their oral health needs.
Dental Implants in Lombard IL
Dr. Julie Glud is an experienced dental implant dentist in the Lombard, IL area. If you’re considering dental implants, contact our friendly dental team today at 630-629-5700 to schedule your initial consultation.
